#FacultyFriday: Meet Christy Mantz

Meet Christy Mantz, instructor of social work and service-learning coordinator at PUC, for this week’s #FacultyFriday. Ms. Mantz has taught full-time at PUC since 2016, after teaching at the college during the 2009-2010 school year. Previously, for several years she worked as a senior probation officer for Napa County, after working as a deputy probation officer and probation assistant.

A resident of Napa County for nearly 14 years, Ms. Mantz has worked with a wide variety of non-profit and community based organizations, and continues to collaborate with local programs to manage PUC’s service-learning program. Always interested in work with youth and families, she has worked collaboratively with school officials, drug court programs, child welfare, foster families, substance abuse treatment centers, and a variety of residential treatment facilities across Northern and Central California.

Classes taught:Intro to Social Work, History and Philosophy of Social Welfare Institutions, Human Behavior in the Social Environment, and Social Welfare Policy. I also coordinate the service-learning program at PUC, so I develop relationships with community agencies in Napa and Lake counties, and support faculty as they incorporate student projects with these agencies into their syllabi.

Education: Bachelor’s of social work, from PUC, 2007; currently completing an MSW through the University of Southern California

Professional activities: Certified domestic violence and sexual assault advocate, working with survivors of abuse and trauma through NEWS in Napa County

What made you decide to be a teacher? While working for the Napa County probation department, I became a trainer and discovered how much I enjoyed teaching others something new. I get excited about learning, and am thrilled to be able to share my passion for serving others with students.

What are some of your hobbies? Reading, crocheting, scrapbooking … I’m a real thrill-seeker!

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you? I make nail polish and appreciate nail art—I’ve had my own tiny business since 2012!

What’s your favorite thing about PUC? I appreciate the open, supportive learning community the faculty, staff, and students at PUC create.

What’s your favorite spot on campus? The grassy knoll at Maxwell Commons: the view is spectacular whether the sun is shining or the low clouds have rolled in.

What’s your favorite book? “Evicted” by Matthew Desmond. He’s a sociologist who lived among the impoverished in Milwaukee, detailing their struggles with housing and systemic oppression. He then poses ideas for housing assistance improvements that make sense!

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?

Whether you decided on your major and professional path years ago, or you come to PUC and rediscover yourself, there are supportive people on “The Hill” excited to see you succeed!